plate no. 1765
The Boys’ Workhouse, Helsinki
study guide
est. 20 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Begin with a light sketch to establish the composition and placement of the figures and objects.
- step 02
Block in the large shapes and areas of color, focusing on the overall value structure.
- step 03
Establish the background and the light source coming from the window.
- step 04
Start refining the figures, paying attention to the proportions and anatomical details.
- step 05
Develop the details on the table, including the tools and materials.
- step 06
Refine the clothing folds and textures, using layering and glazing techniques.
- step 07
Add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.
- step 08
Make final adjustments to the colors and values to achieve a cohesive and realistic effect.
color palette
primary · burnt umber · raw sienna · titanium white · ivory black
secondary · cadmium red · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre
Achieve the muted tones by mixing earth tones with white and small amounts of other colors. Use glazes of diluted colors to create subtle variations and depth.
techniques
- ·blocking in
- ·layering
- ·glazing
- ·chiaroscuro
- ·scumbling
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Failing to establish a strong value structure.
- →Using colors that are too saturated.
- →Ignoring the subtle variations in light and shadow.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas
- ·burnt umber oil paint
- ·raw sienna oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·round brushes (sizes 2, 4, 6)
- ·flat brushes (sizes 4, 8)
- ·linseed oil
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium gloss
- ·odorless mineral spirits
Use a medium-grain canvas for best results. Consider toning the canvas with a thin wash of burnt umber before starting.
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